There will be a huge budget increase for Halifax Regional Police.

Halifax council gave the green light Wednesday, to a $98 million dollar budget.

However, it did not come without some major opposition from residents who say the money should be used for things like services and housing.

Halifax police asked for the budget increase in January 2023.

The money, about a six per cent jump from last year, is mostly for increases to salaries and benefits but will include $1.2 million for 22 new positions to accommodate a growing population.

The final city budget is in April.